What is Sunnat?
Sunnat is the traditional name for circumcision - a minor surgical procedure that removes the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the head (glans) of the penis. It is one of the oldest and most widely performed procedures in the world. This page explains what it involves, why people choose it, and what to expect - so you can make an informed, unpressured decision.
Book consultationSun·nat
noun
- 1. The traditional name for circumcision - removal of the foreskin covering the head of the penis.
- 2. Also known as Khatna; performed for religious, cultural, hygiene and medical reasons.
See also: ZSR stapler circumcision, Modified 6S
The meaning behind the word
Medically, there is no difference: Sunnat simply describes the removal of the foreskin, whatever the reason.
The word "Sunnat" comes from the practice of circumcision as observed in many communities, and in everyday language across India it is used interchangeably with circumcision - regardless of whether the reason is faith, tradition, hygiene or a health condition.
Reasons
Why is Sunnat performed?
People choose circumcision for several reasons, and often more than one applies at the same time.
Religious and cultural reasons
In faiths such as Islam and Judaism, circumcision is a long-standing religious observance. In Islam it is commonly performed in childhood, though it can be carried out at any age. For many families it is both an act of faith and a cultural milestone.
Benefits
Benefits of Sunnat
The benefits most supported by medical experience are practical ones. As with any procedure, they are best discussed in the context of your own health during a consultation.
- 1Easier hygieneA cleaner, simpler-to-maintain area.
- 2Lower risk of urinary tract infectionsParticularly in infancy.
- 3Reduced risk of some sexually transmitted infectionsIn adulthood, as suggested by international studies.
- 4Treatment of foreskin conditionsSuch as phimosis, paraphimosis and recurring balanitis.
- 5Prevention of future foreskin problemsWhich is why it is often advised for older men, especially those with diabetes.
Age
At what age can Sunnat be done?
Circumcision is safe across every stage of life. The main differences are the type of anaesthesia used and the length of recovery, which tends to be a little longer for adults than for young children.
There is no "too late".
- Infants
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults
- Elders
Many men have the procedure well into later life, often to resolve a medical problem.
The procedure
What happens during the procedure?
- 1
The area is numbed with local anaesthesia, or general anaesthesia is used for young children or where preferred.
- 2
The foreskin is removed using the chosen technique - modern stapler methods remove and seal the edge in one step, while traditional surgery uses a scalpel and stitches.
- 3
The procedure itself is short, and most patients go home the same day.
Our surgeon may recommend the ZSR stapler or Dr. Patel's Modified 6S Technique, which aims to preserve part of the foreskin where appropriate.
See how the ZSR operation works
Recovery and aftercare
1–2
weeks to heal
Healing generally takes one to two weeks with simple care at home.
- Keep the area clean and dry as advised.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Take the prescribed pain relief; discomfort is usually mild.
- Avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon clears you.
Myths
Common myths about Sunnat
Myth"It is only a religious practice."
FactCircumcision is just as often done for medical and hygiene reasons.
Myth"Recovery is extremely painful."
FactDiscomfort is usually mild and short-lived with modern techniques and proper pain control.
Myth"It cannot be done as an adult."
FactIt can be done safely at any age; adult recovery simply takes a little longer.
Must-watch videos
Sunnat explained on video
From infants to elders - understand the benefits and get expert insights.
Talk to a specialist
Still have questions about Sunnat? A short, confidential consultation is the best way to get answers specific to you or your child. Dr. Alpesh Patel and the team at Tirtham Surgical Hospital are happy to explain your options clearly, with no obligation. Call +91-9428736360.